Photo credit: Rachel Howard
In the realm of entrepreneurship, the demand for adaptive and autonomous workspaces has never been greater. Recognizing this need, 36 West was introduced to offer more than just rental space, it is an entrepreneurial gateway to freedom and success.
Located in historic downtown Hartselle, this innovative space caters to everyone from architects looking for a venue for client meetings, to artists looking for an inspiring workspace, to business owners needing a retail space to sell their products. We cater to a wide range of professionals. 36 West provides a platform for small and medium-sized business owners in any field to nurture their dreams without restrictions.
The hassle of property management and maintenance becomes a thing of the past, allowing entrepreneurs to focus solely on growing and developing their business.
Jade Choening, a property manager and partial stakeholder in the new business, said now is the perfect time in Hartselle’s growth for a business like 36 West.
“Heartsell is clearly growing and there aren’t that many options for small business owners,” she says. “This is a good, cost-effective option for someone who can’t afford her $1,000 monthly rent.
“More than that, we want the community to be a part of this.”
Choening said she envisions an environment where community members stop by regularly to meet and greet business owners.
“We’ll have a pop-up shop that day where people can gather, and we’ll also have stores at Depot Day and other city-wide events,” Choening added.
Currently, 36 West is home to five small businesses, including a natural soap and household goods retailer, a bookstore, and a photography studio. Phase 2 construction is currently underway.
Choening said the second phase will be build-to-suite, where business owners can design their own space to suit their needs.
Brittni Witcher owns L&L Creations. She created all natural products starting with her goat milk soap because her son Liam had eczema.
“I took him to the doctor and he prescribed steroids. I used steroids to calm him down, but I didn’t plan on staying on steroids forever,” Witcher said. “I did a lot of research and ended up with goat milk soap.
“I decided to make it for him and thought, ‘If I’m going to make it anyway, I might as well sell it.'”
Witcher said the business snowballed from there to its current location at 36 West Street.
She sells shower steamers, room sprays, sugar sprays, and candles.
“It’s all natural. That’s my kick. No fragrances, no chemicals. It’s what the earth gives us,” Witcher said.
Before 36 West opened, Witcher ran a small business out of his home.
“It’s going to be very busy,” she said of being at home with her two young sons, Logan and Liam. “This gives me a place to be creative.
“When I’m at home, I can focus on doing the things at home like doing laundry, cooking, and taking care of the kids. Here I can concentrate. Not to mention, it’s a great location. People are crazy about this place. It’s just a matter of time.”
“Everyone was so nice and friendly. And it’s really nice to be able to write one check and be done with it,” she added. “I don’t have to worry about internet or utilities. I like the simplicity of it.”
“I wouldn’t be able to have a store without this location.”
Beyond the physical space, 36 West fosters a supportive community of like-minded people and encourages collaboration and creativity.
36 West is located at 209 Main St. W, Hartselle.
To contact Choening about rental opportunities, please send an email. 36Westartselle@gmail.com.
